The US DOGE cancelled a $21 million grant to CEPPS for enhancing voter turnout in India, prompting BJP leaders to allege external interference in elections. The announcement was made by DOGE, led by Elon Musk, alongside other funding terminations. Critics, including Rajeev Chandrasekhar, emphasized concerns about democracy being undermined by foreign influences, while former officials defended the integrity of financial arrangements related to the Election Commission of India.
The US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) recently cancelled a $21 million grant intended for the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS) aimed at enhancing voter turnout in India. This cancellation has led to allegations from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), specifically Amit Malviya and Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who claim it reflects external interference in the country’s electoral processes. On social media platform X, DOGE, led by Elon Musk, announced the termination of this grant along with others intended for political initiatives in various countries.
One of the cited allocations included $22 million for Moldova and $21 million for India, both aimed at promoting political inclusivity and engagement. However, details regarding the Indian entity intended to receive this grant were notably absent. The CEPPS website and that of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which funds CEPPS initiatives, were inaccessible at the time of reporting.
The DOGE’s decision to cut various grants stems from a broader policy shift under the current administration, which has been systematic since President Donald Trump’s return to power. In response to the DOGE’s announcement, BJP’s Amit Malviya expressed on X, “This definitely is external interference in India’s electoral process. Who gains from this? Not the ruling party for sure!”.
Additionally, Rajeev Chandrasekhar raised concerns about perceived threats to democracy, stating, “Smoking gun of Interference and undermining of Democracies… I hope we investigate the money trail in India fully and who did what with the ‘USAID’ money.” He connected the situation to funding for recent protests influenced by foreign support.
The International Foundation for Electoral Systems, a CEPPS partner, states that CEPPS is a nonprofit organization formed to support global elections and political transitions. It emphasizes the importance of promoting resilient, inclusive democracies through collaboration with local and international partners. In 2012, they established a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Election Commission of India (ECI) to share knowledge and expertise.
Malviya criticized the Congress party for allegedly compromising the integrity of the ECI through foreign partnerships. However, former Chief Election Commissioner SY Quraishi defended the MoU, clarifying that no financial obligations were involved and asserting that any claims of external funding related to it are inaccurate and misleading. He emphasized that the MoU was strictly for training purposes, with no associated costs stated.
While the Election Commission did not respond to inquiries from The Indian Express, concerns regarding foreign involvement in Indian electoral affairs persist, prompting further scrutiny of international funding in domestic politics.
The cancellation of the $21 million grant by DOGE has stirred significant political reactions in India, particularly from the BJP. They argue it reveals potential external interference in the country’s democratic processes. Despite the denials from former officials regarding financing ties to the Election Commission, the debate continues over the implications of foreign funding and influence on Indian democracy, necessitating further investigation.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
